The Spanish women’s handball team took a significant step forward at the 2023 World Cup this Sunday, defeating Brazil 25-27 in the first half and delivering their best performance across three matches. This victory secured advancement to the main round with four points, strengthening Spain’s confidence as the competition moved forward.
Ambros Martín’s squad showed growth across every facet of the game, improving with each outing. After two wins against Kazakhstan and a hard-fought battle with Ukraine, Spain led Group G and positioned themselves to begin the next phase with momentum. Those early results built the foundation for advancing with maximum leverage into the stage where Spain would meet the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, and either Argentina or the Congo, with quarter-final tickets already in sight for several teams.
The World Cup demanded continuous development, and the Guerreras rose to the challenge, peaking in the first half at Arena Nord in Frederikshavn, Denmark. The team’s discipline and tactical balance were evident as goals flowed in the opening twenty minutes while Spain tightened its defense without sacrificing attacking intent. Mireya González managed extensive court time, while Lysa Tchaptchet dominated the center to orchestrate the attack with precision.
Martin’s decision to rotate the lineup paid dividends. The goalkeeper role saw Darly Zoqbi replaced by Merche Castellanos, whose performance provided crucial stops that shifted the match’s momentum in Spain’s favor. Brazil displayed their high caliber through players like Bruna De Paula and Ana Paula, yet the Spanish defense consistently neutralized danger, keeping the North Americans from breaking through as decisively as they hoped.
In the closing minutes of the first half, Silvia Arderius, Sole López, and Kaba Gassama added points to push Spain to a 12-16 lead. Brazil surged back after halftime, finding rhythm through the prolific Ana Paula, who tallied eight goals. With Mireya González still on the sidelines and the tension rising, the Guerreras faced a stern test but stood firm, maintaining composure and structure under pressure.
Spain’s offense found its footing as the game progressed, countering Brazil’s push with decisive counterattacks and sustained discipline. Paula Arcos stepped up to help regain the initiative, while Zoqbi delivered pivotal saves that prevented a Brazil surge. As the clock wound down, Spain reclaimed control and managed to level the score with a clutch stop and a timely goal, signaling a late shift that sealed the victory two minutes before the final whistle. The result was a memorable win that underscored Spain’s readiness for the critical phases ahead and highlighted the team’s resilience in a pressure-packed championship.
The victory not only amplified Spain’s qualification prospects but also reinforced a growing belief within the squad that they can compete with the sport’s strongest teams. The defensive organization, combined with efficient finishing and strategic substitutions, demonstrated the depth of the roster and the coaching staff’s capability to adapt to the demands of high-stakes tournament play. As the main round loomed, the Guerreras carried momentum, confidence, and a clear sense of purpose, ready to navigate the challenges that lay ahead in Frederikshavn and beyond.